Rolaids vs. Tums — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on October 5, 2023
Rolaids and Tums are antacids, with Rolaids containing calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide, while Tums primarily contains calcium carbonate.
Difference Between Rolaids and Tums
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Rolaids is a brand of antacid that contains both calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide. These ingredients work in tandem to neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn or indigestion. Tums, on the other hand, is formulated primarily with calcium carbonate. Its primary function is also to neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn.
Both Rolaids and Tums have been staples in the market for many years, offering relief to those experiencing occasional acid indigestion or heartburn. While Tums might be more widely recognized due to extensive marketing campaigns, both products are trusted by consumers.
Rolaids and Tums are both available in a variety of flavors and formulations. While Tums has branched out with products that include added supplements, such as Tums Dual Action or Tums Chewy Delights, Rolaids also offers different formulations designed to appeal to various consumer preferences.
Both antacids are meant for occasional use and not as a long-term remedy for persistent acid reflux or other gastrointestinal conditions. While they both act to neutralize stomach acid, their specific dosage and directions might vary, and users should always follow label instructions or consult a healthcare professional.
Both Rolaids and Tums are widely available in drugstores, supermarkets, and online platforms in the United States. They have been in the market for many years, with Tums introduced in the 1930s and Rolaids in the 1950s.
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Comparison Chart
Primary Ingredients
Calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide.
Calcium carbonate.
Purpose
Neutralize stomach acid.
Neutralize stomach acid.
Flavor Varieties
Available in multiple flavors.
Available in multiple flavors.
Special Formulations
Regular and extra strength variations.
Range includes Dual Action, Chewy Delights.
Date of Introduction
Introduced in the 1950s.
Introduced in the 1930s.
Compare with Definitions
Rolaids
An antacid brand containing calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide.
I took Rolaids after dinner to combat heartburn.
Tums
Over-the-counter tablets for heartburn relief.
After a spicy meal, he took Tums for comfort.
Rolaids
Over-the-counter remedy for acid indigestion.
She keeps Rolaids in her purse for unexpected heartburn.
Tums
A brand of antacid primarily formulated with calcium carbonate.
Tums quickly helped soothe my upset stomach.
Rolaids
Digestive relief tablets available in various flavors.
The fruit-flavored Rolaids are her favorite.
Tums
Common remedy for neutralizing stomach acid.
I always carry Tums when I travel.
Rolaids
Used to neutralize excess stomach acid and provide relief.
Feeling discomfort, he reached for the Rolaids.
Tums
Digestive aid available in multiple flavors and formulations.
She prefers the berry-flavored Tums.
Rolaids
A household name known for combating occasional digestive issues.
When heartburn strikes, many think of Rolaids first.
Tums
A well-recognized name in the realm of antacids.
For many, Tums is synonymous with heartburn relief.
Rolaids
An antacid
Tums
Tums (stylized as TUMS) is an antacid made of sucrose (sugar) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline in St. Louis, Missouri, US. They are also available in a sugar-free version.
Rolaids
Rolaids is an American brand of calcium and magnesium-based antacid produced by Chattem. It was invented by American chemist Irvine W. Grote in the late 1920s, and originated with manufacturing in Chattanooga, Tennessee under one of Chattem's forerunner companies, which manufactured the brand for Warner-Lambert; Warner-Lambert merged with Pfizer in 2000.
Tums
Plural of tum
Tums
An antacid
Common Curiosities
Which is better for heartburn, Rolaids or Tums?
Both are effective, but individual preferences and reactions vary.
Can I take Rolaids and Tums together?
It's best to consult a healthcare professional before mixing medications.
Do both Rolaids and Tums come in flavored varieties?
Yes, both are available in multiple flavors.
What are the main ingredients in Rolaids?
Rolaids contains calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide.
Are there any side effects to Tums?
Overuse can lead to side effects; always follow recommended dosages.
Is Tums just calcium carbonate?
Primarily, yes. Tums' main ingredient is calcium carbonate.
How do Rolaids and Tums neutralize stomach acid?
They contain bases that react with stomach acid, neutralizing it.
Can I give Rolaids to my child?
Only under advice and supervision of a healthcare professional.
How long have Rolaids been on the market?
Rolaids was introduced in the 1950s.
Is there a generic version of Rolaids?
Yes, generic versions with similar ingredients are available.
How frequently can I consume Tums?
Follow label instructions or doctor's advice on frequency.
What is the history of Tums?
Tums has been available since the 1930s.
Are Tums safe during pregnancy?
Many consider it safe, but always consult with a healthcare provider.
How do I store Tums?
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Which is more popular, Rolaids or Tums?
While both are well-known, Tums might have more brand recognition due to extensive advertising.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
